Wisconsin · 2025-2026 Regular Session · Bill

SB 194: Relating to: obtaining attorney fees and costs under the state’s public records law when an authority voluntarily or unilaterally releases a contested record after an action has been filed in court.

Passed one chamber Last action March 23, 2026: Failed to concur in pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1

Plain-language summary

SB 194 is a bill introduced in the Wisconsin Senate on April 14, 2025. According to its official title, it concerns: Relating to: obtaining attorney fees and costs under the state’s public records law when an authority voluntarily or unilaterally releases a contested record after an action has been filed in court. Primary sponsor: Van Wanggaard (Republican), Dan Feyen (Republican), Chris Kapenga (Republican), Romaine Quinn (Republican), Kelda Roys (Democratic), Mark Spreitzer (Democratic), Rob Stafsholt (Republican), Steve Nass (Republican), Cory Tomczyk (Republican). It lists 23 additional sponsors. Most recent recorded action (March 23, 2026): Failed to concur in pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1.

Sponsors

Primary sponsors: Van Wanggaard (Republican); Dan Feyen (Republican); Chris Kapenga (Republican); Romaine Quinn (Republican); and 5 more. 23 co-sponsors.